England Leave Out Kevin Pietersen From Squad For India Test Series

Kevin Pietersen has been left out of England's Test squad to tour India this winter, as the possibility of him returning to the international fold becomes even more remote.

Batsmen Nick Compton of Somerset and Yorkshire's Joe Root have both earned their first call-ups to the Test side as Alastair Cook prepares to begin his tenure as full-time England captain in the aftermath of Andrew Strauss' retirement.

Pietersen spoke with coach Andy Flower after England were defeated in the third and final Test at Lord's by South Africa last month, from which he had been dropped for reportedly sending uncomplimentary texts to Proteas players about Strauss.

The announcement of the squad for the four-Test series had been delayed in order for officials to discuss at greater length the possibility of recalling the Surrey batsman, prompting some to assume Pietersen would be selected.

ECB Managing Director of England Cricket Hugh Morris clarified meetings had taken place with Pietersen, but stressed "there are issues still to be resolved", which has led to his omission.